For the most part, I've grown tired of apocalyptic horror. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early episodes from The Walking Dead proved enjoyable, this category seems largely exhausted at this point. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later remains gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, the platform's new Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy my expectations turning out remarkably entertaining.
Excellent Rhythm and Character Development
Among this movie's greatest strengths is its excellent pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a calm family gathering gets suddenly interrupted by a van plows right into the seating section. From the wreckage, an extremely undead-looking stranger stumbles out proceeding assaulting the attendees. This dramatic scene is then succeeded by a look back, allowing us to observe this household before the disaster struck.
Unlike many zombie films, The Elixir truly allows the audience enough opportunity to get to know the primary personalities before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother with a former close friend, Karina, has become married to her dad—an obviously uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has predictably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and he enjoys gaming with his nephew, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, appears to have recently cheated on Nes. The family head is her dad, who runs a well-known herbal remedy business named Wani Waras, and who seems focused on just two things: his work and his marriage to Nes' former best friend. Unsurprisingly, this family reunion is incredibly tense.
Invested in the Drama
I found myself so engrossed in the family's dynamics and their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could seem like a drawback, but in the end paid off. The Elixir spends a considerable portion of the film to showing us the identity of every family member represents, plus the ways they contribute to the general dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled the audience to relate to the personalities sufficiently to be concerned for their outcome—a rare accomplishment for this style that often presents characters only to kill them off shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, thus it's a genuine shock when things eventually deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences from the gathering and various household exchanges actually bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a Korean drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory moments don't focus as much on comedy as Parasite, but The Elixir nonetheless provides sufficient time to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.
Unique Infection Source
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing explanation for the source of the contagious transformation. Rather than an accidental lab leak or some sort of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a new batch of Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. While some background is provided something regarding how it started, I wish the film had spent additional focus on how Wani Waras went from a reputable supplier of holistic medicine to creating a deadly potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious virus. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition produces on humans is utterly repulsive, which I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a daring decision, yet it works. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very convincing, and they're almost certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Capable Characters
Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable decision-making (like any typical undead film), however for the most part, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. Additionally, they aren't afraid to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with whatever blunt instrument is available rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger approaches.
Believable Family Strike
The Elixir doesn't drop its themes on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, this proved a welcome realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in apocalyptic films. It's clear, Nes cares for her relatives and cares about her husband, Rudi, but it's also clear she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. Once the household becomes split up, they decide over the phone to regroup at a close spot. However, once Bang reveals he doesn't know how to get there, Nes unleashes an immense amount of frustration on her brother that's clearly been building over time. Nes isn't perfect, and her relatives—flawed as it is—feel realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that nearly dying instantly cures familial strife. This makes those instances where these individuals do show appreciation toward one another seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
Despite The Elixir's best attempts to innovate, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound message about family or community, as well. Instead, it's primarily delivering scares. Yet these are effective scares, and because the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for having flaws, the result proves an engaging and entertaining
